INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Creaform launches latest VXintegrity version

Creaform, a business unit of Ametek Inc and a specialist in portable 3D measurement, is releasing a new version of VXintegrity, its solution for surface damage assessments that is accessible to all non-destructive testing (NDT) service companies across multiple sectors.

VXintegrity is a powerful NDT software platform, launched by Creaform last year, which integrates all analytical functions and tools into an intuitive, user-friendly interface for inspection teams and service companies. Composed of four software modules, VXintegrity solves the challenges of asset owners in a wide range of industries, including aerospace, oil and gas, power generation, and mining.

According to Creaform, the most significant change is VXintegrity’s game-changing algorithm, which eliminates the need for human interaction to analyse any surface and ensures highly repeatable results. It also removes all the limitations of simpler algorithms, paving the way to inspection applications on complex components, such as very aggressive double-curvature geometries, elbow pipes, T-joints, valves, advanced nozzles and boiler tubes. Creaform says that the algorithm is revolutionary for 3D surface assessments as it does not require a CAD model reference or any manual interventions with the data to identify the area of interest.

‘’By developing a dedicated NDT software platform, Creaform is showing the world its commitment to the NDT market and willingness to invest in developing the most innovative 3D scanning solution for surface damage assessment,” says François Lachance, product manager at Creaform.“Version 1.1 is in alignment with this commitment. Our newly reconstructed algorithm beats all other approaches on the market.”
For further information www.creaform3d.com

Fein launches powerful magnetic clamping solution

Power tools and accessories manufacturer Fein has introduced its first expandable clamping solution, the VersaMAG system, to the UK metalworking market. The modular system, centred round a powerful magnet, features a range of attachments that are fully interchangeable for use in endless applications.

VersaMAG, a neodymium magnet, forms the foundation of the clamping solution. Its two-rotor system generates a maximum holding force of 7800N, allowing end users to clamp securely to all magnetic surfaces as thin as 4mm. As a result, the system enables users to complete tasks safely and efficiently across a huge range of work environments, including shipyards, aircraft manufacturing facilities, and steel and fabrication shops.

The clamping system’s powerful magnetic base also eliminates the requirement to manoeuvre rigid worktop vices or materials to secure it safely while operating tools. This advantage significantly reduces the required set-up time across many applications.

In addition to the vice and jaws, Fein can offer a 16mm welding plate for use with the magnetic base. Featuring a hole-grid system, the welding plate enables simple and precise alignment of workpieces.Its small and compact design makes it suitable for both stationary and mobile use.

“As well as offering increased productivity and flexibility, VersaMAG expands our portfolio of safety solutions,” says comments Andy Mills, managing director of Fein UK. “We know from speaking directly to users that a lack of flexible vice options has historically led to frustration and safety risks, where material cannot be secured properly or operators have felt forced to use their hand, leaving only one hand free for tool operation. We’re proud to solve this issue with our new, easy-to-use magnetic clamping system.”
For further information www.fein.com/en_uk

Heimatec delivers training to Hyfore Workholding

With the recent announcement of Hyfore Workholding as the exclusive UK distribution partner for the Heimatec brand of precision tools and systems, Dirk Hund, head of sales from Heimatec Germany recently visited Hyfore Workholding in the UK to deliver in-depth product training.

Specifically, Hund visited Oli Riley, standard workholding product manager at Hyfore Workholding, to deliver in-depth product training on Heimatec tooling. The presentations and training included solutions for static and driven tooling for fixed-head and Swiss-type lathes.

Before the UK visit, the Hyfore UK team underwent comprehensive training sessions in Germany at Heimatec’s headquarters in Renchen. The programme consisted of in-depth training on how the manufacture, assembly and testing of Heimatec tool holders.Rileyalso had time to discuss the latest developments from Heimatec, gaining a deeper understanding of the behind the scenes processes and building relationships with the Heimatec team in Germany.

Commenting upon the exciting new partnership, Riley says. “I gained a great insight into the structure of the tool-holder units and their impressive build quality. I’m looking forward to imparting my new Heimatec product knowledge to new and existing customers throughout the UK.”

Hund adds: “Oli is a fast learner and picked up quickly on the advantages the Heimatec product portfolio offer, such as high-speed, advanced speeder technology, internal cooling solutions, high pressure versus standard pressure, customised solutions, Heimatec quick-change systems and more. We’re happy to collaborate with Hyfore Workholding and strongly believe we have found the right partner for future success in the fast-growing UK market.”
For further information www.hyfore.com

Largest laser DED AM cell at GKN Aerospace

GKN Aerospace now has the world’s largest known laser directed energy deposition (DED) additive manufacturing (AM) cell as part of its new Global Technology Centre in Texas. Cell 3 is the next step in pushing the boundaries of large-scale additive manufacturing of titanium aircraft structures through the process of laser metal deposition (LMD) with wire.

Shawn Black, GKN Aerospace’s president of defence, says: “Cell 3 will create opportunities to deliver a whole new level of additively manufactured titanium components to the sizes needed for safety-critical air and space structures. The technology is a game-changer and has shown its proficiencies in producing components faster and with significantly reduced lead times.”
For further information www.gknaerospace.com

Emag building Mexico plant

The symbolic ground-breaking ceremony recently took place for the new plant of machine tool builder Emag Group at the San Isidro Business Park in Querétaro, Mexico, marking the start of an ambitious investment programme in the region. Taking shape on a total area of 2880 sq m, the production area will span 1800 sq m and offer 30 machine assembly stations. In addition to the production hall, the new building includes support space on three levels with a total area of 1200 sq m. For instance, the second floor will house offices for administration, quotation preparation, sales and engineering.
For further information www.emag.com